GP conversation guide

A helpful appointment does not need a perfect explanation.

Use this guide to prepare a short, honest picture of what is changing and what you need help with. It is not a diagnostic checklist or a script you have to follow.

Need a starting point?

Bring ADHD and perimenopause together in one private set of notes.

Open the reflection and GP planner

Before the appointment

The aim is to give a clear picture, not to prove a case. If your surgery offers a longer routine appointment and that would help, you can ask.

What has changed, and roughly when did you first notice it?
How are periods, temperature, sleep, mood, focus, memory or energy showing up for you?
What is the impact at home, at work, in relationships or on day-to-day life?
What medicines, prescribed treatments, contraception, vitamins, herbal products or supplements are you currently using?

At the start of the conversation

A short opening can help the appointment stay with the issue that matters most to you.

I have noticed some changes that are affecting daily life, and I would like to talk through whether perimenopause, ADHD, sleep or anything else may be relevant.
The two things I most want help with today are…
I have brought a brief note so I do not forget the main changes or questions.

Questions you can adapt

You do not have to use these verbatim. Keep only the questions that feel useful.

Could we talk about the options that may be appropriate for my situation?
Could anything else be contributing, and is there information that would help us understand this more clearly?
I live with, or have questions about, ADHD. How should that be considered alongside the changes I have noticed?
If we agree a plan, when should it be reviewed and who should I contact if things change?

After the appointment

A follow-up note can make it easier to remember what was agreed and decide what you want to ask next time.

Write down the key points, any next steps and the planned review date.
If you did not feel heard or still have unanswered questions, you can ask your practice how to arrange another conversation or speak with another clinician.
Use the Support page for trusted information and emotional support while you wait for the next step.

Do not wait for a routine planning exercise

Some changes deserve prompt clinical attention.

The NHS advises contacting a GP if you have palpitations, if your bleeding becomes heavier or changes in a concerning way, or if you have any vaginal bleeding after 12 months without a period. If you are in immediate danger or need urgent mental-health support, use the urgent routes on the Support page. [1]

Find urgent support

Read the original guidance

Use sources to prepare, not to pressure yourself.

These links provide the underlying UK guidance and appointment-preparation information. They are useful to browse before or after an appointment, in your own time.

NHS: symptoms of menopause and perimenopause

Current UK information on symptoms, their possible impact and when to contact a GP.

NHS: treatment for menopause and perimenopause

A UK overview of available management options to discuss with a doctor, nurse or pharmacist.

The Menopause Charity: how to ask your GP for help

Practical appointment-preparation suggestions, including period changes, medication and questions to record.

NHS: ADHD in adults

Information about ADHD support and assessment, including the role of a GP when symptoms affect daily life.

Not ready to make an appointment?

Start by choosing one small idea to try or one pattern to notice.

Explore coping ideas